FlyQuest, a prominent organization in the League of Legends esports scene, has taken decisive action, suspending its top laner, Gabriel `Bwipo` Rau, for one match in the upcoming LTA 2025 Championship. This disciplinary measure follows comments made by Bwipo during a recent Twitch stream, which sparked widespread criticism for their perceived sexist undertones.
The controversy ignited when Bwipo suggested that women should refrain from competitive gaming during their menstrual cycles. His rationale was that this biological phase could lead to irritability and hinder their ability to perform at peak levels, thus putting them at a disadvantage. He attempted to frame his comments as non-sexist observations, purportedly based on his personal experience playing with a female acquaintance who, in his view, became easily agitated during her period.
However, the esports community was quick to challenge this perspective. Among the most vocal critics was Efje `Sjokz` Depoortere, a highly respected esports host and personality. Sjokz eloquently dismantled Bwipo`s argument, pointing out the vast number of women who excel in high-stakes environments—from breaking athletic records to performing critical, round-the-clock duties as nurses—all while experiencing menstruation. She unequivocally labeled Bwipo`s stance as ignorant and, more concerningly, as perpetuating “dangerous rhetoric” that could deter aspiring female gamers.
FlyQuest`s official statement unequivocally condemned Bwipo`s remarks, asserting that they fundamentally contradict the organization`s core values. The team emphasized that such statements are not merely misinformed but actively detrimental to the growth and inclusivity of esports, potentially discouraging women from pursuing professional gaming careers. Beyond the one-match suspension, FlyQuest has imposed additional sanctions: Bwipo`s prize money from the LTA 2025 Championship will be redirected to a charitable foundation dedicated to supporting women in gaming.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing journey towards true inclusivity in competitive gaming. While Bwipo`s comments might have been intended as an ill-advised observation rather than malicious sexism, their impact highlights the crucial need for greater awareness and education within the esports community. Professional players, as public figures, carry a responsibility to foster an environment that welcomes and empowers all individuals, regardless of gender or any other characteristic. The notion that a natural biological process could be a valid reason to disqualify half the population from competitive play is, frankly, an anachronism in an industry striving for meritocracy.
FlyQuest, as the strongest team from LTA North 2025 Split 3, is set to begin its LTA 2025 Championship run in the second round of playoffs. The match Bwipo will miss is scheduled for September 20th, where the North American roster will face the Brazilian team, Vivo Keyd Stars. While the team navigates this challenge on the competitive stage, the larger conversation ignited by Bwipo`s comments will undoubtedly continue, hopefully paving the way for a more understanding and equitable future in esports.
Jasper Hawthorne